Outdoor Guide

With 300 days of sunshine, Pasadena is the perfect place to experience the great outdoors.

Pasadena is one of California's most picturesque and historical cities, making it the ultimate getaway for those looking to explore the outdoors. Here are a few of our top picks for parks, gardens, and trails to explore in Pasadena:

Parks

Pasadena is full of beautiful parks that are ideal for an afternoon picnic, walk through nature, and more outdoor family fun. Visit Pasadena’s Brookside Park, Hahamonga Watershed Park, or Angeles National Forest, which features brilliant slopes and rocky canyons to hike along, to begin your outdoor adventure.

Gardens

Flowery gardens, natural landscapes, arboretums, and redwood forests are just the beginning of Pasadena’s endless beauty. Locations such as Descanso Gardens, Los Angeles County Arboretum, Tournament House and Wrigley Gardens, and The Huntington, which is a popular Hollywood filming spot, will illustrate what makes Pasadena one of the most stunning cities to tour.

Trails

There are plenty of trails within Pasadena to get active on. Grab your bike, dog, or family members, and discover the breathtaking views that Pasadena's landscape offers. Explore the Oak Knoll section of town, visit the world-famous Rose Bowl, or head out on a 10-mile stretch down the East Fork of the San Gabriel River with one of Pasadena’s hiking or biking tours. Whatever trail you choose, you are sure to run into breathtaking scenery.

More To Do

The incredible opportunities for fun and adventure the city of Pasadena boasts does not end here. Make sure to check out the listings below for more thrilling outdoor activities in Pasadena, including local sporting events, golf courses, beautiful views, and more.

Active Life and Sports

Angeles National Forest

Please be aware of the active Bobcat Fire in the Angeles National Forest. The Angeles National Forest is currently temporarily closed to all activity. Follow...

Active Life and Sports

Bikes & Hikes LA

Hiking and Biking ToursThrough a selection of five regularly scheduled guided biking and hiking tours, Bikes & Hikes LA offers individual travelers an up close...

Active Life and Sports

Brookside Golf Course

Brookside Golf Course is located in Pasadena, California—it is adjacent to the Rose Bowl Stadium in the Arroyo Seco natural area. Brookside features two...

Active Life and Sports

Brookside Park

Park Near the Rose BowlPasadena's largest fully maintained park facility (61.1 acres) is located just south of Rose Bowl Stadium. Lots of parking is available...

Gardens

Descanso Gardens

Descanso Gardens. Descanso Gardens features nine botanical collections, a (ride-able) miniature railroad, house museum, modern art gallery, cafe and gift...

Active Life and Sports

Eaton Canyon

Timed EntryReservations are required for entrance to Eaton Canyon Natural Area and access to the Eaton Canyon trail system. Only one reservation per household...

Active Life and Sports

Hahamonga Watershed Park

Hahamongna Watershed Park is located at the Southeast corner of Oak Grove Drive and Foothill Boulevard. This 1300-acre park in the Arroyo Seco extends from...

Gardens

Los Angeles County Arboretum

Plant and outdoor lovers, immerse yourself in nature and experience 127-acres of stunning gardens, natural landscapes, historic structures and learning spaces....

Active Life and Sports

Pasadena Ice Skating Center

The Pasadena Ice Skating Center facility features an NHL regulation size rink with 4 team rooms, skate rental, party room, vending machines, pro shop, and...

Active Life and Sports

Rose Bowl Aquatics Center

The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, opened in 1990 and is located in Pasadena's beautiful Brookside Park, just south of the...

Active Life and Sports

Rose Bowl Stadium

America's Stadium. The stadium is the proud home of the Tournament of Roses Football Game, UCLA Bruin Football, Americafest Fourth of July Celebration,...

Active Life and Sports

Santa Anita Park

Santa Anita Park. Considered one of the world's most beautiful race tracks, Santa Anita is home to numerous prestigious races including the Santa Anita Derby,...